The Transformational Leader

21Building High-Performing Teams

The strength of the team is each individual member. The strength of each member is the team.

—Phil Jackson

Terrell Owens's athletic ability was undeniable, catching passes that left fans in awe. Still, even though he ranks among the best receivers of all time, started in six Pro Bowls, and led the league in touchdowns in 2001, 2002, and 2006, he was passed over for the Hall of Fame the first two times he was eligible. How can this be? Throughout his career, whispers followed him from team to team. Though he was a talent on the field, in the locker room, his presence was like a storm cloud.

Owens craved recognition and was unapologetic about it. He didn't hesitate to voice his discontent when he felt underappreciated or underpaid; this bothered many in the stands, the locker room, and the sports media. His disputes with teammates and management were aired publicly, and this refusal to place the team's needs first overshadowed his talent. A contractual dispute with the Philadelphia Eagles led to a fallout with management and star quarterback Donovan McNabb.¹ The locker room, once united, began showing cracks. Despite his monumental talent, his inability to foster unity and resolve conflicts maturely cast a long shadow.

His bouncing from team to team told a story of a supremely talented athlete whose inability to lead and be a part of a cohesive unit reduced what could have been a legendary career. Terrell Owens shows us that while talent may ...